Passengers upset after cruise ship turned away in Cuba

Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line’s Grand Classica, on its way to Cuba as part of its special Valentine’s Day trip for families to reconnect with their loved ones, was turned away from the island Friday.

Passengers are angry and frustrated.

“I was dreaming of the moment that I meet my mom again,” passenger Yordi Santana said.

“Everybody was dreaming to be with our families and suddenly they just said, 'No you have to leave,'” Santana said.

It’s not the cruise line, but the Miami-based travel agency called Viva Travel he’s angry with.

The trip, which had prices starting at $600, promised a reunion allowing loved ones living on the island to enjoy quality time with the Cuban Americans aboard the ship for a few hours.

Santana said he had planned to enjoy food and cocktails with them while listening to live music.

“To know that they are right there, just a half hour, and not be able to go, it’s very frustrating for me," he said. "I’m sure for other people in this boat right now."

In a statement, the cruise line said: “Due to the Cuban government denying entry into Havana without reason and despite advance approvals in place, Viva Travel’s charter of Grand Classica is headed for Nassau, Bahamas to complete her four-day cruise. Guests’ safety and security continue to remain a top priority.”

Grand Classica is expected to arrive to the Port of Palm Beach Monday around 7 a.m.